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Bone Density (DEXA) Scan

Last Updated: September 2026

A bone density scan – also known as a DEXA/DXA or bone densitometry exam, is an advanced imaging test that measures bone mineral density to evaluate bone health and help assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. If you are searching for a DEXA scan near you, this overview explains what a bone density scan is and how it works.

A bone density scan (DXA) is specifically designed to measure bone mineral density and can detect bone loss that may not be apparent on standard X-rays. The examination is most commonly performed on the lower spine and hips. By measuring bone mineral density, DEXA provides important information about bone strength and fracture risk.

DEXA technology can also be used for whole-body body composition analysis when that type of examination is specifically performed. However, a standard bone density examination of the hip and spine is not the same as a whole-body body composition assessment.

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Bone Density Scan for Osteoporosis Risk Assessment

A DEXA bone density scan is commonly used to help assess the risk of osteoporosis and osteoporosis-related fractures. By measuring bone mineral density at sites such as the hip and spine, the examination can identify reduced bone density before a fracture occurs.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weaker and more susceptible to fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. Because bone loss often develops without symptoms, many people may not know they have osteoporosis until a fracture occurs.

A bone density scan may be recommended for individuals with risk factors associated with bone loss, including:

Increasing age
Previous fractures resulting from low-trauma events
Family history of osteoporosis
Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
Medical conditions associated with bone loss
Low body weight
Smoking or excessive alcohol use

Results from a DEXA scan help healthcare providers evaluate bone health, determine fracture risk, and guide decisions regarding monitoring, lifestyle modifications, or treatment when appropriate. Your provider may recommend a DEXA scan based on your age, medical history, or fracture risk profile.

DEXA Body Composition Scan

In addition to evaluating bone density, DEXA technology can be used to assess body composition through a separate whole-body examination. A DEXA body composition scan can provide measurements of total and regional fat mass and lean mass.

This DEXA body composition scan is distinct from a standard bone density examination and must be performed as a separate whole-body assessment.

Depending on the examination and equipment used, a body composition report may include measurements such as total body fat percentage, regional fat distribution, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) estimates, and lean mass.

Body composition results can vary based on age, sex, body size, health status, and the equipment and reference data used. These results should be interpreted in the context of your individual health status and goals. When appropriate, body composition measurements may help patients and healthcare professionals track changes over time.

How is a DEXA scan performed?

DEXA equipment includes a padded table, a scanning arm with a detector, and an X-ray source beneath the table. The technologist positions the patient, often using supports to help align the spine and hips.

The patient remains still while the scanner moves over the body and acquires images. DEXA uses a very small amount of ionizing radiation.

The scan itself is generally brief, although appointment length may vary depending on the type of examination being performed.

DEXA Scan Details (Before, During and After)

Before the Exam

You may eat and drink normally on the day of your examination. Do not take calcium, calcium replacements, or osteoporosis medications on the day of your exam unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Tell the imaging center if you have recently had a barium examination, CT scan with contrast, or certain nuclear medicine examinations, as you may need to wait before having a DEXA scan.

You may be asked to change into a gown and remove metal objects or clothing that could interfere with the examination, such as jewelry, belts, eyeglasses, or garments containing metal.

During the Exam

During the scan, the imaging arm passes over the body while low-dose X-rays measure bone mineral density.

The hips and spine are routinely evaluated because they are common sites of osteoporotic fractures. Depending on the clinical indication, the wrist or forearm may also be assessed.

A vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) may be performed to look for vertebral fractures.

If a body composition examination has been ordered, a whole-body scan may be performed.

Results and Follow-Up

Bone Density Results

For postmenopausal women and men age 50 and older, bone density is generally classified using T-scores, which compare your bone mineral density with a young-adult reference population:

-1.0 or higher: Normal bone density
Between -1.0 and -2.5: Low bone density
-2.5 or lower: Osteoporosis

For women prior to menopause, men younger than age 50, and children, Z-scores are typically used to help interpret bone density results.

A Z-score compares your bone density with individuals of the same age and sex:

Above -2.0: Within the expected range for age
-2.0 or lower: Below the expected range for age

Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your medical history, risk factors, and overall health.

Body Composition Results

If a body composition examination is performed, the report may include measurements of total and regional fat mass, lean mass, body fat percentage, and other metrics, depending on the equipment used.

Follow-Up

The appropriate interval between bone density examinations varies based on your initial results, age, risk factors, medications, treatment status, and other clinical considerations. Your healthcare provider can recommend when repeat testing is appropriate.

Find an Akumin imaging clinic location offering DEXA bone density scans near you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)›

What is a bone density scan (DEXA) and how does it work?

A bone density scan (DEXA), also called a DXA scan, uses low-dose X-rays at two energy levels to measure bone mineral density in areas such as the hip and spine. The scan compares your results to reference data to help assess bone strength and fracture risk.

What is a bone density scan used for?

A bone density scan is used to evaluate bone mineral density, assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, and help healthcare providers determine whether further monitoring or treatment may be appropriate.

Why would my doctor recommend a bone density test?

You may eat and drink normally on the day of your exam. Do not take calcium, calcium replacements, or osteoporosis medications on the day of your exam unless instructed otherwise. Tell the imaging center if you have recently had a contrast study, barium examination, or nuclear medicine procedure. You may also be asked to remove metal objects or clothing containing metal before the scan.

Is a bone density scan painful or invasive?

No. A DEXA scan is noninvasive and does not require injections or anesthesia. You will lie still on a padded table while the scanner passes overhead.

How long does a DEXA scan take to complete?

DEXA examinations are generally brief, although the length of the exam may vary depending on the type of scan and areas being evaluated. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time for exam preparation and any necessary paperwork.

What about radiation exposure?

DEXA uses a very small amount of ionizing radiation. Radiation exposure from a typical bone density examination is extremely low.

Who should consider a DEXA scan?

Your healthcare provider may recommend bone density testing based on your age, fracture risk, medical history, medications, or other factors associated with bone loss.

How often should I repeat the test?

The timing of repeat bone density testing depends on your results, risk factors, medications, treatment status, and other clinical considerations. Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate interval.

Do I need to stop medications or supplements?

Do not take calcium, calcium replacements, or osteoporosis medications on the day of your exam unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider. Tell the imaging center about any medications or supplements you are taking and any recent imaging examinations when scheduling your appointment.

Please review our Exam Prep Instructions before your appointment for complete preparation guidelines.

Can I get a scan if I'm pregnant?

Tell your healthcare provider and technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Because DEXA uses ionizing radiation, your healthcare team will determine whether the examination should be performed or postponed based on your individual circumstances.

Will insurance cover it?

Coverage varies by insurance plan, medical necessity, and the reason for the examination. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage and any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.

Do I need a physician referral or doctor's order to get a DEXA scan at Akumin?

A physician referral or doctor’s order may be required for a DEXA scan. Contact your local Akumin center to confirm scheduling requirements and check with your insurance provider regarding coverage.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)›

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